Saturday 10 December 2011

Keep Mosquitoes at Bay

If you are travelling in a malarial zone, a mosquito net is vital. It is said that mosquitoes have killed more people than war. Mosquitoes feed on the blood of humans. As they move from host to host, they can take blood born diseases with them. Dengue fever, Ross River Fever, various forms of encephalities and malaria can be transmitted by mosquitoes. According to the Centers for Disease Control, mosquitoes kill 2 million each year. It is particularly tragic that most of these deaths are children; their young bodies unable to put up much of a defence against the onslaught.

Bell nets are probably the most recognisable form of mosqutio nets. Suspended from a ring, they fan out to cover your bed. For bell, box and wedge nets which require hanging, the necessary hanging kit is supplied. All that is required is somewhere to attach them (e.g. a hook, beam or cord).

Freestanding nets pop up like tents and can be used by those out camping or who don't have somewhere from which they can hang a traditional net.

Those who are moving around and/or don't necessarily know where they will be sleeping, compact mosquito nets are ideal. Whilst products large enough to cover even double beds are available, their design means they can be collapsed down small enough to be stored in a compression bag. They are small enough to be carried in backpacks or hand luggage; the perfect choice for those off travelling the globe or trekking around Africa.

It is the recommendation of the World Health Organisation that all those travelling within malarial zones take with them a mosquito net impregnated with a strong insecticide. Long Lasting Impregnation (LLI) kills mosquitoes as soon as they land on the net. The LLI lasts for 2 years, after which it can be impregnated with commercially available anti-mosquito treatments. Reimpregnation is a simple process that can be carried out at home. Draw the net through a solution of the anti-mosquito treatment and leave to dry.

Mosquitoes are a particular problem at night, but are actually active for the whole period between dusk and dawn. If you are planning activities during the early morning or evening, it's still important to keep yourself protected by mosquitoes. You may be up and moving, but that won't stop them trying to bite. Head nets are made of a fine mesh that offers you clear vision while also keeping the mosquitoes off your face.

Of course, mosquitoes can be a pest even if they are not carrying dangerous diseases. For that reason, some mosquito nets are available in non LLI versions which are suitable for using in the UK and other non malarial areas.

If you're travelling in sub-Saharan Africa, Asia or the Americas, it's very important you take a mosquito net with you. Whether you're staying in a double bed in a single hotel or hiking through the mountains, sleeping beneath the stars every night, there's a net suitable for your needs. Malaria is a terrible problem, but there are simple steps you can take to avoid the worst of it.

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